Synopsis:
Legendary hit man John Wick (Keanu Reeves) is forced back out of retirement by a former associate plotting to seize control of a shadowy international assassins’ guild. Bound by a blood oath to help him, John travels to Rome where he squares off against some of the world’s deadliest killers.
-StudioCanal
Film Review:
John Wick: Chapter Two remains the action packed, and anime inspired movie filled with martial arts and incredible “gun-fu” fight scenes throughout. A movie adapted from a screenplay written by Derek Kolstad that mainly focuses on John Wick ( Keanu Reeves) and his life as a legendary hitman known as The Boogie Man starting from the first part where Wick came back to being a hitman for vengeance. This time, in Chapter Two he continuous to search for revenge but ends up getting into deeper trouble than he is already.
Keanu Reeves’ role as Wick is very absorbing, he remains a human being despite what he does and shows respect for their code of honour. He actually fits in as Wick in the movie and makes it about the story and not about him- which makes it more interesting to watch.
This film being a successful debut for Stahelski in making this instalment an excellent introduction for the next best thing- Part Three. Stahelski’s style of directing an action film has a strong foundation that
came from his experience as a stuntman himself. This goes for the first part as well where Leitch who also worked as a stuntman for years, directed the first John Wick film. It’s fascinating to see through the eyes of a stuntman because they see details that other directors don’t, and this small details make a huge difference in the combat scenes. The particular close range gun fu scenes that are so artistically choreographed and executed well.
The story of John Wick is a sad story about struggles and pain (physical and emotional), but it also delivers a message of hope that remains undeterred. Altogether, this film is a fantastic neo-noir action thriller with consistent pace and engaging plot. This second instalment just created a higher standard and expectation for the third one. So far, John Wick has entertained and a movie to look forward to seeing again!
Out in NZ cinemas May 18, 2017
NZ Rating: R16 for suicide and violence